Rouzer, David RSS Articles

Rouzer, Murphy Champion Fifth Annual North Carolina WATERS Summit to Advance Flood Solutions for North Carolina Communities

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 17:29:23 GMT

GREENVILLE, NC - Today, North Carolina Congressmen David Rouzer (R-NC-07) and Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-NC-03) hosted the fifth annual Water Adaptation to Ensure Regional Success (WATERS) Summit in Greenville, North Carolina. This full day nonpartisan event brought together more than 175 local, state, and federal leaders, academic experts, and flood mitigation professionals to discuss solutions to waterway and flood mitigation challenges in North Carolina.

Since the last WATERS Summit, Congressman Rouzer has continued advancing legislation to address water-related challenges, streamline disaster assistance, and improve permitting.

“As communities grow in North Carolina, it's more important than ever to build them strong and resilient. That’s why I'm proud to help bring together industry leaders and public officials at the fifth annual WATERS Summit to identify ways to better protect North Carolinians from flooding," said Congressman Rouzer. "By leveraging modern technology and advancing legislative solutions in Congress, we can better prepare our state for future flood risks. I appreciate the partnership with Congressman Greg Murphy and everyone else who makes this a productive and collaborative summit.”

"It was a pleasure to host another successful WATERS Summit, convening so many incredible leaders from across North Carolina and our country to collaborate on flood mitigation," said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. "Waterway challenges and storm resiliency are not partisan issues - they are human issues. No recent example is greater than Hurricane Helene, which devastated our mountain neighbors, who we continue to support as they rebuild their lives. North Carolina faces unique challenges as a large state, and improving our infrastructure to withstand flooding is critical to our continued success and the preservation of our way of life."

As a senior member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Congressman Rouzer secured several priorities in H.R. 9497, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026. The legislation will help protect families from flooding while strengthening the resilience and durability of the nation’s ports and inland waterways.

Through WRDA 2026, Congressman Rouzer secured authorizations for critical infrastructure improvements involving ports, waterways, flood protection, and water infrastructure. These include Surf City’s 50-year federal beach renourishment project, multiple flood risk reduction studies for communities across Southeastern North Carolina, a feasibility study to improve water quality in the Cape Fear River in Cumberland County, and improvements to White Lake’s water infrastructure.

Congressman Rouzer is working to strengthen disaster response and improve coordination among federal agencies through H.R. 4669, the FEMA Act of 2025. Three of his bills were incorporated into the legislation, which advanced out of committee and awaits consideration by the entire House chamber.

Congressman Rouzer is also advancing permitting reform through H.R. 3898, the PERMIT Act, which passed the House in December 2025. The legislation streamlines permitting under the Clean Water Act, eliminate duplicative regulatory requirements, and provide greater clarity and predictability for infrastructure and energy projects.

The 2026 WATERS Summit featured speakers and participants from federal, state, and local government, as well as experts in infrastructure, flood mitigation, environmental quality, and disaster recovery. Speakers included Rep. David Rouzer (NC-07), Rep. Greg Murphy, M.D. (NC-03), U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Ted Budd (R-NC) (both participating virtually), Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo, Greenville Mayor P.J. Connelly, North Topsail Beach Mayor Richard Grant, NC State Senator Kevin Corbin, co-chair of the Governor’s WNC Recovery Committee, and Greenville City Manager Michael Cowin, among many others.

To watch the 2026 WATERS Summit, click here.

Rouzer Secures Federal Funding to Strengthen North Carolina’s Freight Rail Network

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 18:13:59 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) announced up to $43.6 million in federal funding will be awarded to R.J. Corman Railroad Group through the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program. The funding will strengthen freight rail infrastructure across North Carolina and the Southeast.

The project includes infrastructure improvements to R.J. Corman’s Raleigh and Fayetteville Railroad (RFCC), a 63-mile short line connecting Raleigh and Fayetteville, and Carolina Lines (RJCS), an 88.5-mile railroad running from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, to Chadbourn, North Carolina.

Planned improvements include replacing worn rail and crossties and rehabilitating track and grade-crossing surfaces. These upgrades are expected to reduce temporary speed restrictions and derailment risks, improve service reliability, and preserve critical rail connections linking North Carolina businesses to the national freight network.

“Our nation’s rail network plays a critical role in moving freight across the country and supporting American businesses," said Congressman Rouzer. "I’m proud to have worked with R.J. Corman to secure federal funding to modernize Raleigh and Fayetteville Railroad (RFCC), Carolina Lines (RJCS), and other rail lines to meet growing demand. I appreciate R.J. Corman’s commitment to these investments, which will strengthen North Carolina’s economy and the broader Southeast, enhance rail network resilience, and keep goods moving safely and efficiently.”

“This investment is an important step toward strengthening the short line railroads that help keep America’s economy moving,” said Justin Broyles, President and Chief Executive Officer of R. J. Corman Railroad Group. “The improvements made possible through this grant will enhance safety, improve reliability, preserve critical transportation infrastructure, and support future economic growth across our network. We are grateful for the confidence placed in R. J. Corman and proud to work alongside federal, state, and local partners to deliver lasting benefits for our customers, the communities we serve, and the nation’s supply chain.”

In September 2026, Congressman Rouzer sent a letter to Federal Railroad Administration Administrator David Fink urging support for R.J. Corman’s grant application. In the letter, he emphasized the importance of rehabilitating these rail lines to maintain confidence in the rail network at the local, regional, and national levels.

The project will benefit eight railroads serving 120 shippers across the agriculture, manufacturing, aggregates, chemicals, metals, energy production, ores, and critical minerals industries.

Background

R.J. Corman Railroad Group, LLC, provides a range of services, including emergency response, track material distribution, short line railroad operations, industrial switching, and signal design and construction.

The CRISI program, administered by the FRA within the U.S. Department of Transportation, provides funding for rail infrastructure projects that improve safety, efficiency, and reliability.

Congressman Rouzer to Host Badges of Honor Event for Veterans in NC-07

Thu, 15 Oct 2026 17:04:33 GMT

HAMPSTEAD, NC — Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) announced a Badges of Honor event to help veterans in North Carolina’s Seventh Congressional District obtain military awards and medals they earned but may have never received, as well as replace those which have been lost or damaged. The event will take place Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Media Room at Cape Fear Community College’s Surf City Campus.

Navigating the process of obtaining military awards and medals can be complicated. Veterans may need to apply for awards they earned or request replacements for medals that have been lost or damaged. Congressman Rouzer’s staff will be available to assist veterans and their families with the necessary paperwork and guide them through the process.

“Our Badges of Honor event is a chance to help North Carolina’s Seventh District veterans and their families obtain the medals they deserve,” said Congressman Rouzer. “Every medal tells a story of service and sacrifice, and we want to ensure those stories are honored and our veterans receive the recognition they have earned.”

Participants are encouraged to bring their DD-214. Those who have questions about required documentation may contact Grant Seitrich in Congressman Rouzer’s office. Family members are welcome to attend.

Veterans who are unable to attend may contact Congressman Rouzer’s office at (910) 395-0202 or visit the office’s website for assistance. Veterans who live outside NC-07 can click here and contact their representative’s office for similar assistance.

Space is limited, interested participants must RSVP here.

Event Details

What: Badges of Honor
Who: Veterans in North Carolina’s Seventh Congressional District
Date: Thursday, November 12, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Media Room, Cape Fear Community College Surf City Campus
Address: 621 NC Hwy 210 East, Hampstead, NC 28443

A downloadable flyer is available here.

Port of Wilmington Awarded Federal Grant to Expand Capacity, Rouzer Applauds Investment

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 13:05:59 GMT

WILMINGTON, NC - Today, Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) announced the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded the Port of Wilmington $6,002,296 for port improvements through the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) program.

This award will support the development of 140 commercial motor vehicle parking spaces, 50 freight container staging positions, as well as secure and smart operations infrastructure at the Port of Wilmington in New Hanover County, North Carolina.

“The Port of Wilmington connects Southeastern North Carolina to the world. As freight demand continues to grow, these improvements will help move goods more efficiently, strengthen our supply chains, and support the businesses, workers, and communities who rely on the port,” said Congressman Rouzer. “I’m pleased to see this investment come to our community, which will help ensure the Port of Wilmington can continue to support economic growth across the region.”

"This award and the associated projects work in concert to propel North Carolina Ports to achieve its winning aspiration of being the Southeast’s most trusted, preferred, efficient, customer centric gateway by providing seamless, diversified total cost-advantage solutions for customers, bolstering North Carolina’s economy," said Brian Clark, Executive Director, North Carolina State Ports Authority. "We appreciate Congressman Rouzer’s ongoing support."

The project will help the port accommodate growing freight volumes, expand truck parking and container staging capacity, and reduce delays through more efficient coordination of pickups and deliveries. As a vital economic asset for southeastern North Carolina, the Port of Wilmington connects regional businesses to domestic and international markets. These improvements will help the port meet future freight demand and support continued economic growth across the region.

Background: INFRA (the Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight & Highway Projects program) awards competitive grants for multimodal freight and highway projects of national or regional significance to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the movement of freight and people in and across rural and urban areas. The INFRA grant program funding will be made available under the MPDG combined Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).

Rouzer Welcomes Dr. Ibadoghlu’s Transfer to Germany for Urgent Medical Treatment

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 19:16:16 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman David Rouzer (R-NC-07) welcomed the transfer of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu to Germany, where he can finally receive urgently needed medical treatment.

Dr. Ibadoghlu arrived safely in Berlin at approximately 4:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. While the criminal charges against him remain in place, his arrival in Germany provides an important opportunity for him to receive the medical treatment he has urgently needed and sought for years.

“Dr. Ibadoghlu is now safely in Germany and able to receive the medical care he urgently needs and has long been seeking," said Congressman Rouzer. "In the meantime, I’ll continue to call for his immediate and unconditional release. Emin and his family have shown tremendous persistence throughout this ordeal, and I hope Dr. Ibadoghlu can return home to his family soon.”

Dr. Ibadoghlu’s son, Emin Bayramli, said, “Our family is deeply grateful to Congressman Rouzer and his office for standing with us from the beginning. We also thank the German government, the State Department, the Administration, and everyone who supported our family and advocated for my father.”

Dr. Ibadoghlu was arrested on July 23, 2023, and held at the Baku Detention Center in Azerbaijan. During his detention, his health deteriorated, and he was denied access to necessary medical treatment. He was transferred to house arrest on April 21, 2024, but his freedom remained restricted, and he was prohibited from receiving medical care. His case remains unresolved for more than three years, leaving him and his family in continued uncertainty.

On February 6, 2025, Congressman Rouzer (R-NC-07), alongside Congressman Frank Pallone (D-NJ-06), introduced a resolution condemning the Azerbaijani government’s treatment of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu and calling for his immediate and unconditional release. You can find the full text of the resolution here.

Rouzer Celebrates Investment in ILM Aircraft Apron Expansion

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 15:12:59 GMT

WILMINGTON, NC - Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) applauded a $3 million Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant to expand the aircraft apron at Wilmington International Airport (ILM).

The Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funding will support ILM’s apron expansion, the first phase of a broader terminal expansion project that will ultimately add additional gates, improve aircraft parking and maneuvering, and position the airport to accommodate continued passenger and airline growth.

"Southeastern North Carolina relies on Wilmington International Airport to connect our community and support our growing economy," said Congressman Rouzer. "This investment is a major step toward ensuring ILM can accommodate continued growth and better serve our community for years to come. I'll keep working to enhance ILM’s advancement as well as our other infrastructure needs.”

“We’re thrilled to see this investment at ILM,” said Jeffrey Bourk, ILM Airport Director. “Our airport has grown tremendously in recent years, and the work ahead will allow us to keep pace with the region. We thank Congressman Rouzer for his continued advocacy and support for ILM. With this funding, we can modernize our infrastructure to provide the safe, efficient service our community and passengers expect."

AIP funding supports airport infrastructure projects, including runways, taxiways, signage, lighting, markings, and other improvements that promote safe and efficient airport operations.

House Passes Water Resources Development Act with NC-07 Priorities Included

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 00:22:53 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, with the support of Congressman David Rouzer (R-NC-07), the House passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026, following unanimous approval by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure on July 14. The legislation includes Surf City’s federal beach renourishment project and multiple flood reduction studies for communities across Southeastern North Carolina. The bill now advances to the Senate for consideration.

“WRDA 2026 delivers for Southeast North Carolina, moving critical federal water infrastructure projects forward more efficiently and helping meet the needs of communities across our region,” said Congressman Rouzer. “The House passage brings us another step closer to strengthening our communities and making our homes and businesses more resilient to future natural disasters.”

Across the country, our water infrastructure supports agricultural production, protects homes and businesses from natural disasters, and strengthens ports and waterways. WRDA 2026 authorizes 10 major U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects (including one in Surf City), 131 feasibility studies for locally proposed projects, and provides policy guidance for implementation by the Corps.

WRDA 2026 North Carolina priorities championed by Congressman Rouzer include:

Surf City 50-Year Federal Beach Nourishment Project: Authorizes $292.8 million in federal funding over the 50-year life of the Surf City Coastal Storm Risk Management Project, periodically renourishing the beach and dune system to reduce storm damage and strengthen the long-term resilience of Topsail Island.
Improves Flood Resiliency: Advances three flood risk management studies in Whiteville's Waccamaw River Basin, Fayetteville's Cross Creek Watershed, and the Town of Topsail Beach, allowing the Corps to evaluate solutions to reduce flooding and better protect surrounding communities.
Enhances Water Quality: Supports a water supply and ecosystem restoration feasibility study of the Cape Fear River in Cumberland County to identify new opportunities for regional water supply while removing hazardous substances from the water supply and strengthening the long-term health of the river.
Strengthens White Lake Infrastructure: Authorizes $40 million for water, wastewater, stormwater, and other environmental infrastructure improvements to improve the community's long-term resilience.

The legislation also supports economic growth by improving Corps operations and increasing collaboration with non-federal partners on maintenance dredging projects. To accelerate project delivery at a lower cost, WRDA 2026 requires the Corps to provide regular project updates to Congress, allowing lawmakers and the Corps to identify solutions that keep projects on track. Together, these reforms will help deliver projects faster and support the American economy.

For more information on WRDA 2026, click here.

Click here or the image below to watch Congressman Rouzer's opening remarks during Committee markup.

Rouzer Announces $25.1 Million HUD Grant for Fayetteville’s Murchison Housing Corridor

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 21:00:00 GMT

FAYETTEVILLE, NC - Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) announced today the City of Fayetteville and the Fayetteville Metropolitan Housing Authority (FMHA) have been awarded a $25,115,578 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Fiscal Year 2025 Choice Neighborhoods Implementation (CNI) Grant program. The grant will support the transformation of the Murchison Townhouses public housing community into the new mixed-income Murchison Choice Neighborhood.

“This is a major investment in the future of Fayetteville and, most importantly, in the families who call Murchison home,” said Congressman Rouzer. “This funding will help bring new housing, stronger infrastructure, and greater opportunities to one of Fayetteville’s historic neighborhoods. I was proud to support the City of Fayetteville’s application, and I’m pleased to see this significant federal investment become a reality.”

"This Choice award will be a game-changer for the Murchison Road corridor and the families who call it home. For years, our residents have shared their vision for a stronger, safer, more connected neighborhood — today, that vision starts becoming reality,” said Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin. I want to thank Congressman Rouzer, our Murchison Choice team and every resident who showed up to shape this plan, understanding that this work is about more than what we see today — it’s about what we’re building for the next generation. Fayetteville is ready to get to work."

The award will leverage more than $531 million in public and private investment to fund the next phase of the Murchison Choice Transformation Plan, a comprehensive strategy to revitalize one of Fayetteville’s most historic neighborhoods through new housing, infrastructure, and community investment.

Fayetteville’s grant follows sustained advocacy from Congressman Rouzer and the City’s Congressional delegation. Congressman Rouzer advocated for the City’s application with HUD leadership, including through an April 2026 letter to Secretary Scott Turner in support of the project.

The project will replace all 60 units at the 56-year-old Murchison Townhouses public housing community while creating 323 new mixed-income apartments across the Murchison Townhouses and Elliott Properties sites. The project will also expand supportive services for residents and support physical improvements throughout the surrounding neighborhood.

Rouzer Announces 2026 Congressional App Challenge for NC-07 Students

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) is excited to announce the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open for submissions. The annual competition is open to all middle and high school students across North Carolina’s Seventh Congressional District to showcase their creativity, coding skills, and innovative ideas.

Students must register online and submit their apps no later than October 26, 2026.

“The Congressional App Challenge gives students a chance to turn big ideas into something tangible,” said Congressman Rouzer. “Every year, I’m inspired by the talent and creativity of our students, and I’m excited to see what this year’s winner creates!”

The Congressional App Challenge gives students an opportunity to design and create their own app for web, PC, tablet, mobile device, robotics, or any other platform of their choice. The winner will have their app featured in the U.S. Capitol, receive an invitation to the #HouseOfCode reception on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., and an opportunity to have their app patented at no cost.

To be eligible, students must be enrolled in middle or high school and either live or attend school in North Carolina’s Seventh Congressional District. Students can use the district lookup tool to confirm their eligibility.

Students may participate individually or as part of a team of up to four students. For team submissions, at least half of the team members must be eligible to participate in the district where the app is submitted.

Complete guidelines and regulations for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge can be found here. For more information, visit Congressman Rouzer’s website.

Latest Update from Rep. Rouzer...

Sun, 16 Aug 2026 20:41:08 GMT

Dear Friend,

During the August district work period, I’ve been traveling throughout the Seventh District meeting with local businesses, industry leaders, and community groups.

Visits during the work period have included meeting with members of my Agriculture and Veterans Advisory Councils, visiting with Wilmington’s WAVE Transit and Oldcastle Infrastructure in Fayetteville. These conversations provide valuable insight into the issues our communities face and help shape the work I do in Washington. I was also able to attend the annual tobacco market opening to celebrate America's first crop. To learn more, keep reading!

If you received this newsletter from a friend, and you would like to continue receiving these updates, you can subscribe here or connect with me on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Supporting North Carolina Agriculture

Agriculture remains North Carolina's top industry, supporting thousands of family farms, businesses, and jobs across our rural communities. From row crops and livestock to forestry and specialty crops, our farmers work tirelessly to provide the food, fiber, and fuel to sustain our nation.

I recently brought together my Agriculture Advisory Council to talk directly with leaders about opportunities and challenges impacting their communities. Our discussion focused on a wide range of issues, including high input costs, labor shortages, trade barriers, regulatory burdens, and the importance of strengthening the farm safety net to ensure producers can continue operating.

I appreciate each of them for taking the time to share their perspectives and expertise. I will continue fighting to ensure North Carolina's farmers and rural communities have the tools and resources they need.

Supporting Those Who Served Our Nation

Marri "Nicki" Fryar, Director of the Fayetteville VA Coastal Health Care System, joined my Veterans Advisory Council to discuss the challenges facing our veteran community and ways we can continue improving access to care and services.

Our veterans have made tremendous sacrifices in defense of our nation, and we owe them our deepest gratitude and the very best care possible. I will continue working with local VA leaders, veterans, and community partners to ensure those who have served our country receive the quality care, support, and respect they have earned.

Keeping Our Communities Connected

WAVE Transit is an innovative microtransit service connecting residents throughout the Wilmington area. I had the chance to see firsthand how its innovative service is expanding access to flexible, on-demand transportation, particularly in areas where traditional fixed-route bus service may not be practical.

Reliable transportation is essential for getting to work, medical appointments, school, and other daily activities. WAVE Transit's dedication to providing safe, reliable, and accessible public transportation helps keep our communities connected.

As Chairman of the Highways and Transit Subcommittee of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I’m proud of the work the next surface transportation reauthorization bill, the BUILD America 250 Act, does to improve the safety of our regional transportation systems. The bill supports a broad range of transit options, including services like WAVE Transit, helping connect people across our communities.

Building North Carolina's Infrastructure

Strong, reliable infrastructure is the foundation of a strong economy. I recently visited Fayetteville's Oldcastle Infrastructure to learn more about their work building and maintaining the roads and bridges our communities rely on every day.

As North Carolina continues to grow, the infrastructure connecting our communities must keep pace. I appreciated the opportunity to hear from the Oldcastle team about how they are helping meet our state’s growing infrastructure needs. I am proud of the contributions our state and its workforce provide to enhance the infrastructure that keeps America moving.

Celebrating America’s First Crop

I was proud to join many in the agriculture community for this year's Tobacco Market opening this past week. Working on our family farm during the summers when I was growing up showed me firsthand the dedication and grit it takes to grow this crop.

Tobacco has played an important role in shaping North Carolina over many, many years. And during the early years of our country, it was the lifeblood of the colonies. Tobacco grown in the colonies helped finance the American Revolution and sustain the economy. Without it, our country would have never been able to survive.

It’s incredible to see the resilience of our growers, and I appreciate the community coming together to celebrate the important role this crop has played in shaping America over the course of the past 250 years. The values of our farm families are deeply woven into the fabric of our state and continue to define the resiliency of North Carolina agriculture. I look forward to seeing this same spirit of determination carry the state and country into the future.

With my good friend, Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler.

I was glad to join in on the action of an old-school tobacco auction.

Here to Help You

One of the most rewarding parts of my work is the opportunity to assist constituents as they navigate federal agencies and services. So far this year, my office has resolved more than 1,600 cases for constituents, and it’s always great to hear when it makes a difference in someone's life.

If you need help with Social Security, the IRS, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Medicare, passports, or another federal agency, my office may be able to assist in resolving your issue or obtaining the information you need. Please give us a call at (202) 225-2731 or visit my website. We are here to help!

Good News Story

After more than 44 years in the classroom, beloved South Brunswick High School science teacher Gary Cavender is retiring after a long career dedicated to inspiring generations of students. Originally hoping to become a doctor, Cavender instead turned his love of science into a passion for teaching and serving his community.

Mr. Cavender leaves behind a remarkable legacy of mentorship, education, and community service and, of course, plenty of memories of his signature Hawaiian shirts! To read more about Mr. Cavender’s remarkable impact on students in the Brunswick community, read the Wilmington StarNews.

Closing Thoughts...

"Love your neighbor as yourself and your country more than yourself." — Thomas Jefferson